Doctor Strange (2016 film)

Doctor Strange (2016 film) is a American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, it is the fourteenth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The film was directed by Scott Derrickson, who wrote the screenplay with Jon Spaihts and C. Robert Cargill. It stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange / Doctor Strange, alongside Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Mads Mikkelsen, and Tilda Swinton. In Doctor Strange, Strange learns the mystic arts after a career-ending car accident.

Plot

The film begins with Stephen Strange, a brilliant but arrogant neurosurgeon, severely injuring his hands in a car accident, leading to a downfall in his career. Desperate for healing, Strange learns of The Ancient One, a powerful sorcerer who teaches him the ways of magic and the mystic arts in order to protect the world from a range of supernatural threats.

Cast

• Benedict Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange / Doctor Strange
• Chiwetel Ejiofor as Karl Mordo
• Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer
• Benedict Wong as Wong
• Mads Mikkelsen as Kaecilius
• Tilda Swinton as The Ancient One

Production

The development of Doctor Strange began in 1986, with plans moving forward and backward over the years until Paramount Pictures acquired the film rights in April 2005 on behalf of Marvel Studios. In 2014, Scott Derrickson was hired to direct and co-write the film with Jon Spaihts and C. Robert Cargill. Principal photography began in November 2015 in Nepal before moving to the United Kingdom, and concluded in New York City in April 2016.

Release

Doctor Strange premiered in Hong Kong on October 13, 2016, and was released in the United States on November 4, 2016, in 3D and IMAX. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $677 million worldwide and receiving praise for its visuals, cast, and score.

Reception

Critics praised Doctor Strange for its visual effects, performances, and Derrickson's direction, while the narrative and pacing received some criticism. The film received several awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.

Sequels and future

Following the success of Doctor Strange, a sequel titled Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was announced, with Derrickson returning to direct. However, Derrickson later left the project due to creative differences, and Sam Raimi took over as director.